Zoe Cortez

Based at ZØKU™ Salon in Summit NJ, Zoë has earned a reputation for her innovative use of color. As owner and color director, Zoë creates illusions of depth and dimension through color, using balayage (a European technique) and foil in order to achieve optimum results. Zoë is known in the beauty industry for her ability to transform- creating light and movement to any shape, or any style. Zoë’s color signature, so often seen gracing the beauty editorials in VOGUE, HARPERS BAZAAR and IN STYLE is a sexy sultry look with multiple levels of contrast. Zoë’s strong background in art and architectural design make up the foundation of her unique style.

Zoë has perfected a technique, which she calls “precision patterning”, a blueprint exclusive to each individual, according to the line and form of the hair. Every chromatic creation begins with the shape, so cut and color work closely together to achieve light and movement. Zoë, formerly of the Brad Johns Salon, teamed up with Laurent D of Prive L.A. in 1998, to open Prive New York in downtown Soho. Some of Prive’s impressive clientele list includes Madonna, Gyweneth Paltrow, Paris Hilton, Sharon Stone, and Uma Therman to name a few.

Catering to some of Hollywood’s hottest names, Zoe’s philosophy reflects her desire to make each client feel as though they have celebrity status. “My role is to assist in achieving a look from start to finish. In order to do that, you have to be completely invested in the process.” From reshaping the brows, to a dramatic color change, Zoë advises clients on how to achieve their ultimate image. “Everyone has a certain potential and it’s my job to help them find their style,” says Zoë. “And just like in fashion, styles and colors change. Personal style is about finding your own evolution.” As a freelance design specialist, Zoë has consulted on make-up and hair design for a roster of celebrity clients and socialites including, Gina Gershon, Marishka Hargitay, Heather Tom, Sharon Case, Tea Leoni, Natalie Merchant, Elisa Donovan, “Sex and the City’s” Chris Noth (Mr. Big), David Strathhorn, Foofighters, Marcia Kilgore, and Katie Brown.

Her work has appeared at events including fashion week for clients Catherine Malendrino, Victoria’s Secret, Scott French, and Richard Tyler. Zoë has made numerous television appearances to discuss the latest trends in hair and fashion and has designed for several on-air personalities, TV shows, and on the sets of major motion pictures.